The National Adult LIteracy Survey was a nationwide survey of a random sample of approximately 26,000 adults. The survey collected information about individuals' social, economic, and educational histories and their literacy activities. Their functional literacy was also assessed using simulated functional or real-world tasks designed to determine…

Arguments are presented for extending Universal Primary Education to school age children as well as Universal Basic Literacy Education to illiterate and semiliterate adults in Nigeria. Proposed financing of such programs is outlined. (JMF)

Reviews previous experience and activities in literacy in Arab countries. Discusses the possibility of eradicating illiteracy by the year 2000. Describes the literacy strategy of the Arab states, its limitations, principles for a comprehensive literacy campaign, and examples. Includes the current status of illiteracy and actions being taken in…

Clarifies the concept of universal basic education. Highlights the need for performance criteria and ways to measure literacy attainment. Identifies issues related to improving primary education, seeing adult literacy as its necessary complement. Underscores the substantial resources required to achieve universal basic education. (CH)

Discusses problems facing developing nations in achieving UNESCO's goal of equality of educational opportunity. Mentions continuing inequality in literacy rates between developed and developing countries, and between the sexes. Describes functional illiteracy. Blames lack of progress on rates of demographic growth, pace of educational expansion,…